The Couple: Michelle & AJ
Wedding Date: January 24, 2015
Photography by Heart of Life Photography & Design
Tell us a little about you and your beloved: AJ and I met online back in 2009. We dated for 4 years and even bought a house together before he finally proposed on a beach in Maui during an amazing sunset (totally cheesy I know but it was such a surprised all I could say was SHUT UP before I started crying!).
The wedding planning process was definitely an experience. There was a lot of things that we had a very clear vision on and others that we werent really focused on. Since snowboarding was a huge part of our courting process and I am such a huge fan of the snow, I knew I wanted a winter wedding. The Granlibakken had a beautiful outdoor location that offered an intimate tree lined area with a stone stage and with our dream of a white wedding we thought it would be perfect.
AJ and I pride ourselves on being different and with my craftiness and his handiness we were able to put together a one of a kind experience. From capes, to the Converse to the multitude of hand made and one-of-a-kind items the day was everything we could have ever wanted and more. Even though mother nature didn’t cooperate with the amount of snow we were hoping for it was still amazing. Getting to play and laugh and smile not only with the love of my life but with me closest friends and family it was so special.
What was the most amazing part of your day? The first dance was the best part. To me it just felt like the culmination of the whole event.
Ceremony and Reception Site, and Caterer: Granlibakken Resort
Officiant: Honorable Raul Ramierez
Photographer: Heart of Life Photography & Design
Wedding Planner: Silver Key Events
Cake/Desserts: Divine Desserts for the Wedding Cake, Sugar Cake for the Grooms Cake.
Favors: Handmade Lap Blankets
Bridal Attire: Alfred Angelo
Hair/ Make-up: Chrysta Fisher from Color Envy Salon
Nails: Sarah Ford from Gel Queens
DJ, Photo Booth and Lighting: Fretty’s Disc Jockey & Limousine Service
Décor Rentals: Manzanita Glow
Linen Rentals: Celebrations! Party Rentals & Tents
Honeymoon Location: Dominican Republic
First Dance Song: “Wanted” by Hunter Hayes
Any advice you’d give to our readers who are planning their weddings right now? It sounds totally cliché but take moments throughout the day to take it all in. You spend months and months planning and countless hours worrying and then its all done in the blink of an eye. Also don’t sweat the small stuff. It’s not worth it and chances are no one knows the difference but you. Enjoy the time that you get to spend celebrating love and family and friendship and do your best to experience it to the fullest. Also, don’t skimp on the photography!
Anything that you would have done differently if you were given the chance? Of course there is a list of things I would do differently but when it comes down to it I wouldnt change a THING!
Photos courtesy of Heart of Life Photography & Design.
Blog post by Real Weddings Magazine’s Social Media Maven, Aimee Carroll.
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